Hope for diabetics as laser device succeeds testing

No more finger pricks, as a new laser device invented could monitor blood sugar with 84 percent accuracy

The new laser device could allow diabetics to monitor blood sugar by a non-invasive method

Singapore: As a relief to the million diabetic sufferers who prick themselves daily to monitor their blood glucose levels, scientists at the Princeton University declared that they have developed a new laser device that can measure blood sugar by directing a specialized laser at a person's palm. This could allow diabetics to check their condition by a non-invasive method.

The study published in the journal called Biomedical Optics Express, elaborated that though further research was necessary to materialize the findings, the study would eventually help in replacing the conventional method of blood sugar monitoring.

Scientists conducted experiments using a quantum cascade laser to measure the blood sugar of three healthy people before and after they each ate 20 jellybeans, which raise blood sugar levels. The results obtained through laser device were further cross checked with the finger prick test.

Chief author of the paper, Mr Sabbir Liakat said that upon comparison, the results were found to be 84 percent accurate. He added, "Glucose monitors are required to produce a blood sugar reading within 20 percent of the patient's actual level, even an early version of the system met that standard."

Senior researcher, Professor Claire Gmachl said, "We are working hard to turn engineering solutions into useful tools to improve the lives of many diabetes sufferers who depend on frequent blood glucose monitoring."

Prof Gmachl further added that the quantum cascade could be potentially used for other medical purposes as the laser can be designed to emit light across a very wide wavelength range.